Tooth Sensitivity │Tips From Your Dentist

March 15, 2016

Reducing Tooth Sensitivity:

Tooth sensitivity is no walk in the park, and, worse, it can affect just one tooth or more. With these sensitivities, you might feel a sharp pain that comes on suddenly, even shooting into your nerve endings. This might happen when you take a drink of a cold beverage, take a bite of hot soup, or snack on a piece of candy.
This sensitivity occurs when the dentin layer is exposed, which is the layer underneath your gums. This layer consists of the inner part and roots and has tiny tubes leading to the nerve center of your teeth. This is the reason the cold, hot or sweet trigger reaches the nerve in your tooth, resulting in pain.
There are also several reasons why teeth sensitivity issues might become a problem. For instance, if you brush your teeth too hard, over time, the enamel can be worn down and the dentin exposed or gum disease can result in inflamed and painful gums pulling back, leaving the roots of your teeth exposed. If you grind your teeth that can also expose the dentin by wearing down the enamel.

Fortunately, there are things you can do to help reduce teeth sensitivity:

• Brush and floss your teeth on a regular basis.
• Brush gently using a soft bristled toothbrush.
• Change your toothbrush every two to three months, or sooner if it becomes worn.
• Opt for a toothpaste made for sensitive teeth.
• Use a fluoridated mouth rinse everyday, which can help to decrease sensitivity.
• If you grind your teeth, talk to your dental team about whether you should have a mouth guard made, to wear at night.
• Stay away from food and drinks that have high acidity.
• If you are thinking about having your teeth bleached, discuss sensitivity with your dental team before starting treatment.
• Visit your dental team regularly, as often as they recommend!

For more information about teeth sensitivity issues, or for questions about treating this ailment, contact us at The Smile Center of Rochester to visit our office for an appointment!